1 / 64This historic, two-level residence in the Bellavista neighborhood of Golfito offers an exceptional opportunity for buyers seeking authentic character and ocean views at an attractive price point of USD 292,000. Positioned in the upper elevation of this quiet, predominantly local enclave, the property sits on a 234 m² parcel and features a substantial construction footprint of 340.03 m². The upper residential level comprises three bedrooms and three bathrooms, alongside a dedicated office space. Throughout this level, rare and highly coveted local hardwoods—including Pilon floors and ceiling beams, Tiger Wood doors, and accents of Nazareno and Manglio—lend an irreplaceable warmth to the interior. The main dining area, kitchen, and office open directly onto a front balcony, which frames views of the entrance to Golfito Bay. Equipped with new air conditioning units and a fully furnished kitchen, the upper level is entirely move-in ready.
The lower level of the home is designed for maximum utility, featuring a two-car garage paired with a custom-built Allen Scott brick oven. This level also hosts a secondary kitchen fully outfitted for baking or pastry preparation, a laundry area with a washer and dryer, multiple ice makers, a spacious main living room, and a large workshop space currently utilized for upholstery. Located within walking distance of downtown shops and the waterfront boulevard, the home sits in close proximity to the protected jungle reserve. For buyers navigating the purchase process in Golfito, Costa Rica permits foreign buyers to hold fee-simple ownership. Transaction costs include a property transfer stamp tax of approximately 1.5% of the declared value, with the total closing bundle for notary, registry, and legal fees generally ranging between 2% and 4% of the purchase price. Ongoing ownership costs are highly manageable, as the annual property tax is calculated based on the registered cadastral value of the estate.
This two-level historic residence in Golfito spans 340.03 m² of construction on a 234 m² land parcel, offered at USD 292000. The home is built with rare, high-value Costa Rican hardwoods that are no longer available for commercial purchase. The interior features durable Pilon wood across the floors and structural ceiling beams, while the doors and tables are crafted from exotic tiger wood and Nazareno, also known as purple heart. Manglio wood accents are integrated throughout the structure.
The upper level contains the residential living quarters, which feature 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an office, and brand-new air conditioning units. The fully equipped kitchen and dining area open directly onto a front balcony that provides views of the entrance to the Golfito Bay.
The lower level serves as a highly functional workspace and utility area. It includes a two-car garage and a custom brick oven built by Allen Scott. Inside, a second kitchen is fully equipped for professional baking and pastry preparation, supported by multiple ice maker machines and a dedicated laundry facility. This level also features a spacious main living area accessed through a hardwood front door, alongside a separate large room currently utilized as an upholstery workshop.
For buyers analyzing the transaction, ownership is fee simple. The annual property tax is calculated directly from the registered cadastral value of the property. Buyers should also budget for the property transfer stamp tax, which generally runs about 1.5% of the declared transaction value, alongside a closing bundle covering notary, registry, and legal fees that typically ranges between 2% and 4% of the final purchase price.
This historic property is situated in the Bellavista neighborhood of Golfito, Puntarenas, Costa Rica, a region in the South Pacific that has become a highly sought-after destination for North Americans seeking long-term appreciation and an authentic coastal lifestyle. Positioned in the upper elevation of the neighborhood, the home sits in very close proximity to a protected jungle reserve, allowing residents to regularly observe native wildlife like the scarlet macaw in the surrounding canopy. At the same time, the location is highly accessible, situated within walking distance of local shops and a short distance from the waterfront boulevard, downtown amenities, and the local hospital. For those looking to buy property in Costa Rica, this micro-location offers a distinct advantage, blending a quiet residential atmosphere with immediate access to the sheltered waters of the Golfito Bay.
For US and Canadian buyers exploring Costa Rica real estate for Americans, this region supports a variety of lifestyles, from active water sports and sportfishing to remote work and peaceful retirement. The local climate is warm and tropical, cooled by ocean breezes and mountain air from the nearby reserve. As an investment, Costa Rica homes for Canadians and US buyers in this price bracket represent an accessible entry point into the market. Under local law, foreign buyers enjoy the security of fee-simple ownership rights, just like Costa Rican citizens. When purchasing expat real estate Costa Rica, buyers should budget for closing costs, which typically encompass notary fees, registry charges, and legal stamps, alongside a property transfer stamp tax calculated on the declared transaction value. Additionally, ongoing ownership costs are highly manageable, as the annual property tax is calculated based on the registered cadastral value of the estate.
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This property presents a rare entry point into the southern zone market at $292,000, which translates to a highly competitive price of approximately $858 per square meter of construction. Unlike the inflated pricing found in more commercialized tourist hubs, this Golfito residence offers a realistic valuation based on its 340.03 square meters of historic, hardwood-rich structure. The ideal buyer is an active investor or expat entrepreneur who recognizes the value of the dual-level layout. The upper level serves as a comfortable three-bedroom residence, while the lower level—equipped with a professional bakery kitchen and an upholstery workshop—presents immediate potential for a dual-income stream. An owner can live upstairs while generating local commercial rent or operating a boutique business below.
From a transaction perspective, Costa Rica permits foreign buyers to hold fee-simple ownership of this titled land. Buyers should budget for closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 4% of the purchase price to cover notary, registry, and legal fees, alongside a property transfer stamp tax of about 1.5%. Ongoing holding costs are remarkably low, as the annual property tax is calculated directly from the registered cadastral value of the property rather than its market sales price. With Golfito experiencing renewed interest due to its deep-water port and proximity to pristine reserves, this property offers a clear exit strategy as a fully restored historic landmark in a region with finite inventory.
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Acquiring this historic Golfito residence is a straightforward process for North American buyers. In Costa Rica, foreign investors enjoy the same fee simple ownership rights as citizens, allowing you to hold the deed to this property directly in your name or through a local corporation. Because the purchase price of $292,000 exceeds the national threshold for investment-based residency, purchasing this home also positions you to apply for legal residency status.
During the acquisition, you should anticipate a closing cost bundle—covering notary services, registration fees, and legal stamps—that generally totals between two and four percent of the purchase price, alongside a property transfer stamp tax of approximately 1.5 percent of the declared transaction value. Once the purchase is complete, your ongoing carrying costs remain remarkably low. The annual property tax is calculated using the property's registered cadastral value, which is kept on file with the local municipality, ensuring highly manageable yearly holding costs for your coastal investment.
Review title types and due diligence in our fee simple vs concession guide.
Embracing the lifestyle of Golfito means immersing yourself in a coastal sanctuary where the rhythms of the Pacific Ocean and the whispers of the pristine rainforest dictate your daily schedule. This historic Bellavista residence offers more than just a physical structure; it serves as a gateway to a highly coveted, authentic Costa Rican experience that appeals to the most discerning global citizens. Imagine waking up to the gentle call of exotic birds from the nearby protected jungle reserve, stepping out onto your private balcony with a freshly brewed cup of local coffee, and watching the morning mist rise over the tranquil waters of Golfito Bay. This is a place where time slows down, allowing you to cultivate a deep connection with nature while enjoying the warmth of a close-knit, welcoming neighborhood of local residents. The unique layout of this dual-level estate perfectly aligns with the aspirations of modern buyers who seek a harmonious balance between personal sanctuary and entrepreneurial passion. Whether you dream of launching an artisanal bakery, establishing a creative studio, or simply enjoying a peaceful retirement surrounded by rare, historic hardwoods, this property provides the ultimate canvas. It represents a rare opportunity to secure a legacy home in a historic port town, offering an unparalleled lifestyle defined by natural beauty, coastal adventure, and absolute freedom.
Golfito, Puntarenas
Golfito, Puntarenas
Principal broker
In Costa Rica since 2004
